Self-walking cane

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the invention include canes and methods related thereto. In an embodiment, the invention includes a self-walking cane including a handle, a leg, and an articulating joint connecting the handle and the leg. Other embodiments are also included herein.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/549,846, filed Oct. 21, 2011, the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a cane. More specifically, the present invention relates to a cane with an articulating joint and related methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As our population ages, a growing number of people require the use of a cane or other support apparatus to help them walk. Canes can be used on a temporary basis, for example during recovery from surgery or a physical injury, or on a permanent basis as a result of the user's overall physical condition.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the invention include canes and methods related thereto. In an embodiment, the invention includes a self-walking cane including a handle, a leg, and an articulating joint connecting the handle and the leg.

This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The invention may be more completely understood in connection with the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a person using traditional cane.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a person using a cane in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational view of a cane in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a cane in conjunction with a countertop.

FIG. 5A is a schematic view of an articulating joint of a cane in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a torsion spring in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 6A is a schematic view of an articulating joint of a cane in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a leaf spring in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 7A is a schematic view of an articulating joint of a cane in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of an elastomer torsion spring in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 7C is a schematic side view of an elastomer torsion spring in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 8 is a partial cut-away view of a handle including a switch in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 9A is a schematic side elevational view of a foot in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 9B is a schematic perspective view of a foot in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 10A is a side elevational view of a support cuff in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a support cuff in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a support cuff pad in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of a portion of a cane fitted with a support cuff pad in accordance with various embodiments herein.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments of the present invention described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present invention.

All publications and patents mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference. The publications and patents disclosed herein are provided solely for their disclosure. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate any publication and/or patent, including any publication and/or patent cited herein.

Traditional cane use poses challenges for the cane user. As shown in FIG. 1, traditional cane 102 use requires the user 100 to reach forward, away from the hip 108, extending the hand, wrist 114, forearm 112, elbow 106, upper arm 110, and shoulder 104 to take a step. This reaching process forces the user 100 out of balance, compromises the structure of the shoulder and arm, and forces the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints into a non-neutral position while loading or applying weight to the cane in order to take a step forward. By having to move the arm away from one's center of gravity, the user cannot use the full strength of his or her body to take a step forward. This type of cane use is unstable and can inflict damage to the musculoskeletal system, particularly with continued use over time.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a schematic view of a person 100 using a self-walking cane 202 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. The self-walking cane 202 includes a handle 204, a leg 208, and an articulating joint 206 connecting the handle 204 and the leg 208.

The self-walking cane 202 enables a user to take advantage of the full strength of their upper extremity by not having to reach with the shoulder 104, arm 106 and hand 114. To initiate a step forward, the user 100 simply needs to lift the self-walking cane 202 in an upward direction allowing the leg 208 of the self-walking cane 202 to automatically swing forward in the direction of arrow 240, then plant the step and repeat the process. In some embodiments, the lifting of the self-walking cane 202 to allow it to swing forward can be accomplished simply by the user shifting weight to the leg farthest away from the cane. In this manner, the hand and wrist 114 remain in a constant, neutral position near or aligned with the hip joint 108, maintaining a constant and neutral position of the forearm 112, upper arm 110 and shoulder 104. This allows the user 100 to utilize the most anatomically strong and powerful load bearing and load transferring orientations.

The self-walking cane 202 leg 208 can swing forward (the leg can pivot with respect to the handle) based on spring force in the articulating joint to a distance approximately equal to the user's 100 stride. The stride length of the self-walking cane 202 can be adjusted to fit the user's 100 body and particular needs.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a non-limiting embodiment of the self-walking cane 302 is shown. In this view, the self-walking cane 302 of a handle 304 suitable for being engaged by the user's hand, and a vertically oriented leg 308 having an upper portion 320 and a lower portion 322 that are telescoping with respect to one another. The leg 308 extends downward from the handle 304 and is connected to the handle 304 by an articulating joint 306. At the bottom of the leg 308 is a foot 324. The leg can be formed of various materials such as a metal (aluminum, titanium, steel, etc.), a polymeric material, or a composite.

The articulating joint 306 between the handle 304 and leg 308 is spring-loaded or biased. This spring-loaded device forces the leg 308 to swing forward while the handle 304 remains stationary.

In this embodiment, the handle 304 is shown to have about 18.5 degrees of articulation 330 with respect to the leg (alternatively, this can be described as articulation or pivoting of the leg with respect to the handle). It will be appreciated that the degree of articulation can vary depending on the user's strength and needs. In some embodiments, the degree of articulation can be up to 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the degree of articulation can be from about 5 degrees to about 40 degrees. In some embodiments, the degree of articulation can be from about 10 degrees to about 25 degrees. In some embodiments, the degree of articulation can be from about 15 degrees to about 20 degrees. The degree of articulation can be adjustable by adjusting the articulating joint 306 between the handle 304 and the leg 308, and, or alternatively, by adjusting a spring.

The handle 304, in addition to housing part or most of the articulating joint 306 elements, can be of any shape or material that is suitable for being engaged by the hand of a user. To increase comfort, foam or other compressible materials may be used to pad the user contact area of the handle 304. The shape of handle 304 may be contoured or otherwise designed to comfortably fit a user's palm and fingers.

The embodiment of FIG. 3 shows a two-part telescoping leg 308, with a length adjusting mechanism to accommodate a variety of heights. The two parts of the leg can be fixed with respect to one another to adjust to a particular overall length through any of a number of mechanical approaches such as the use of pins, button fixtures, clamping mechanisms, shims, bolts, screws, and the like. Other embodiments of leg 308 are contemplated, such as a single element leg, a folding leg, an ergonomically curved or non-linear leg, and the like. The leg 308 can be made of any material suitable for use in a cane or other walking or supporting device, such as steel, fiberglass, wood, composite materials, and the like. In various embodiments, the leg can be oval in cross-section. However, it will be appreciated that the leg can also take on other shapes in cross-section.

Embodiments of the self-walking cane can be configured to allow it to rest easily on the edge of a counter, on the surface of a table, or lean against a wall. By way of example, referring now to FIG. 4, the self-walking cane 402 can include a projection 440 extending forward beyond where the articulating joint 406 connects the handle 404 and the leg 408. The projection can be of various lengths. In some embodiments, the projection can have a length of between 0.25 and 3.0 inches. In some embodiments the bottom surface of the projection can be substantially flat. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the projection can curve downward (such as toward the foot).

Embodiments of canes herein can include a structure that provides a spring force. In some embodiments, this structure can be a spring. In other embodiments, this structure can be something other than a spring that nonetheless provides a spring force. Various amounts of spring force can be provided for. In some embodiments the spring force can be from about 2 pounds to about 20 pounds of force in order to overcome the bias and result in the handle pivoting in relation to leg. In some embodiments the spring force can be about 7 pounds of force in order to overcome the bias and result in the handle moving downward in relation to leg. In various embodiments, the structure to provide spring force used in the articulating joint can be adjustable to provide a range of spring forces as needed, depending, for example, on the user's physical condition or the environmental conditions.

In some embodiments, the amount of spring force can be variable depending on the degree to which the leg has pivoted with respect to the handle (or alternately stated depending on the degree to which the handle has pivoted with respect to the leg). For example, in some embodiments, the structure providing a spring force can be configured to provide a variable degree of spring force depending on the degree of pivoting. In some embodiments, the amount of spring force provided by the structure can vary by at least 25 percent when comparing the leg at the start of pivoting with respect to the handle versus at the end of pivoting with respect to the handle. In some embodiments, the structure providing a spring force can also provide dampening. By way of example, movement of the leg with respect to the handle can be dampened the greater the distance it has moved. Dampening can be provided through a state of configuration of the structure providing a spring force or can alternately be provided through a separate mechanism such as a fluid-based dampener or the like.

It will be appreciated that the spring or biasing force can be manifested through a variety of different structures. For example spring force can be provided by compression springs, tension springs, torsion springs, clock springs, leaf springs, and the like. Referring to FIGS. 5A-B, an embodiment of a cane 500 is shown utilizing a coiled torsion spring. The cane 500 includes a handle 504, a leg 508, and a coiled torsion spring 502 to provide the spring force associated with the articulating joint. Referring to FIGS. 6A-B, an embodiment of a cane 600 is shown utilizing a leaf spring. The cane 600 includes a handle 604, a leg 608, and a leaf spring 602 to provide the spring force associated with the articulating joint. Referring to FIGS. 7A-C, an embodiment of a cane 700 is shown utilizing an elastomer torsion spring. The cane 700 includes a handle 704, a leg 708, and an elastomer torsion spring 702 to provide the spring force associated with the articulating joint. In some embodiments, an elastomer torsion spring can also provide dampening. The elastomer torsion spring 702 includes an inner ring 754, and outer ring 752, and an elastomeric structure in between the two. With rotation of one of the rings relative to the other, an amount of potential energy is stored in the elastomeric structure, which can then be released providing a spring force. Beyond these exemplary structures, it will be appreciated that other types of structures that provide spring force can also be used.

In various embodiments, a switch (lever or button) can be included that serves to lock the leg of the cane in place with respect to the handle. This feature can be useful should a particular patient prefer that the leg stay stationary relative to the handle such as when on an escalator or under other circumstances. Referring now to FIG. 8, a partial cut-away view is shown of a handle 804 including a switch 842 in accordance with various embodiments herein. The switch 842 is configured to prevent pivoting of the articulating joint when the switch is engaged. In this particular embodiment, the switch 842 pivots about a connection point 844 or pin such that a projection 846 engages an axle within the articulating joint 806 and/or the spring 822, such that the articulating joint 806 cannot move. However, it will be appreciated that there are many different ways of providing this functionality.

In various embodiments, the self-walking cane includes a foot that is connected to the leg on the opposite side of the leg from the handle. The foot of the cane can take on many different shapes. In some embodiments, the foot can be rounded or curved, so that it rolls as the self-walking cane articulates through the walking gait process. In such embodiments, the foot can be of any shape and material which enables a rolling motion.

Materials can include rubber or other traction-providing material to stabilize the self-walking cane on slippery surfaces. Foot can include protrusions such as grooves or treads on the ground-contacting surface of the foot to further enhance the user's stability.

In some embodiments, the foot is configured to provide asymmetric compressibility from a leading side to a trailing side of the foot, such that it is easier to compress the foot on the trailing edge than it is on the leading edge. Referring now to FIGS. 9A-B, the lower portion of a cane 902 is shown including part of the leg 908 and a foot 924. The foot defines a cavity 930. The cavity 930 is closed on the leading side 926 of the foot 924 and open on the trailing side 928 of the foot 924. This unique configuration allows the foot 924 to exhibit greater compressibility on the trailing side 928 of the foot 924 than on the leading side 926 of the foot 924. The foot 924 can have a C-shape in cross-section. In other embodiments the foot can have an O-shape in cross-section.

In various embodiments, the cane can include a support cuff. The support cuff can be attached to the cane and can be configured to engage with a user's forearm in order to provide further support and increase the effective amount of weight that the user can support with their arm. The support cuff can be formed of a semi-flexible material. The support cuff can be formed of various polymers, metals, composites, or the like. FIG. 10A is a side elevational view of a support cuff 1042 in accordance with various embodiments herein. The support cuff 1042 can be attached to the handle 1004 of the cane 1002 (this view also shows the top portion of the leg 1008). FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a support cuff in accordance with various embodiments herein. The support cuff 1042 can include a first side 1046 (or lobe) and a second side 1046 and can define a channel 1048 between the sides 1046 that is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lengthwise axis of the handle. The support cuff 1042 can also define an aperture 1044. In some embodiments the aperture can be left open. In other embodiments the aperture can be spanned by a material such as a breathable fabric or a polymeric mesh or grid.

In some embodiments, the cane can include a support cuff pad. By way of example, a given support cuff may not be a perfect size for every user. Some users have larger forearms than others. Beyond physical differences, some users may desire a tighter fit than others. A greater number of sizes and preferences can be accommodated through the use of a support cuff pad in conjunction with the support cuff. Referring now to FIG. 11A, a perspective view of a support cuff pad 1152 is shown in accordance with embodiments herein. The support cuff pad 1152 can include a first side 1156 (or lobe) and a second side 1156 and can define a channel 1154 between the sides 1156 that is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lengthwise axis of the handle. A portion of the arm of a user can fit within the channel 1154.

The support cuff pad 1152 can be made of various materials. By way of example, in some embodiments the support cuff pad 1152 can be made of a fabric lining with a compressible filling material inside. In some embodiments, the support cuff pad can be made of an elastomeric polymer. In some embodiments, the support cuff pad can be made of a material that is plastically deformable at high temperatures (thermoplastic) but non-plastically deformable yet flexible at temperatures encountered during actual use. In such embodiments, the support cuff pad can be heated up to a temperature where it is plastically deformable, then fitted to the arm of a user, then cooled back down for actual use.

It will be appreciated that there are many different ways of mounting the support cuff pad to the support cuff. In some embodiments, the support cuff pad can simply be adhesively mounted to the support cuff. In other embodiments the support cuff pad can be mechanically attached to the support cuff. In some embodiments, the support cuff pad can be snapped into place within an aperture formed by the support cuff. Referring now to FIG. 11B, a perspective view of a portion of a cane 1102 fitted with a support cuff pad 1152 is shown.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing “a compound” includes a mixture of two or more compounds. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration to. The phrase “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

The invention has been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. A self-walking cane comprising: a handle, a leg, and an articulating joint connecting the handle and the leg.
 2. The self-walking cane of claim 1, wherein the articulating joint allows the leg to move in relation to the handle.
 3. The self-walking cane of claim 2, wherein the leg pivots up to 45 degrees with respect to the handle.
 4. The self-walking cane of claim 2, wherein the leg pivots between 10 and 25 degrees with respect to the handle.
 5. The self-walking cane of claim 3, the articulating joint comprising a pivot limiting mechanism that can be adjusted to limit the maximum angle that the leg pivots with respect to the handle.
 6. The self-walking cane of claim 2, wherein the leg can be moved in relation to the handle once a biasing force in the articulating joint is overcome.
 7. The self-walking cane of claim 2, wherein the biasing force is provided by a structure providing a spring force.
 8. The self-walking cane of claim 7, wherein the amount of spring force is variable based on the degree of pivoting of the leg with respect to the handle.
 9. The self-walking cane of claim 7, the structure comprising a spring.
 10. The self-walking cane of claim 1, further comprising a switch, the switch configured to prevent pivoting of the articulating joint when the switch is engaged.
 11. The self-walking cane of claim 1, wherein the leg is oval in cross-section.
 12. The self-walking cane of claim 1, further comprising a foot connected to the leg opposite the handle.
 13. The self-walking cane of claim 12, wherein the foot is configured to provide asymmetric compressibility from a leading side to a trailing side of the foot.
 14. The self-walking cane of claim 12, the foot exhibiting greater compressibility on the trailing side of the foot than on the leading side of the foot.
 15. The self-walking cane of claim 12, wherein the foot defines a cavity that is closed on the leading side of the foot and open on the trailing side of the foot.
 16. The self-walking cane of claim 12, wherein the foot has a C-shape in cross-section.
 17. The self-walking cane of claim 1, further comprising a support cuff, the support cuff defining a channel oriented substantially perpendicularly to the lengthwise axis of the handle.
 18. The self-walking cane of claim 17, the support cuff defining an aperture.
 19. The self-walking cane of claim 17, further comprising a support cuff pad attached to the support cuff
 20. The self-walking cane of claim 19, the support cuff pad comprising a plastically deformable material.
 21. The self-walking cane of claim 1, the handle comprising a projection extending forward beyond where the articulating joint connects the handle and the leg.
 22. The self-walking cane of claim 21, the projection having a length of between 0.25 and 3.0 inches. 